Question

What is Amniocentesis? For what purpose, it is used?

Hint:

Amniotic fluid contains fetal skin cells and various proteins that allow for detailed chromosomal analysis.

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition - Amniocentesis is a fetal sex determination and disorder test based on the chromosomal pattern in the amniotic fluid surrounding the developing embryo.
Step 2: Purpose - It is primarily used to detect genetic disorders such as Down's syndrome, haemophilia, or sickle-cell anemia in the fetus through chromosomal analysis.
Step 3: Legal Aspect - While scientifically useful, it is often misused for female foeticide, which has led to a statutory ban on sex determination in India.